The difference between disinfection and sterilization are given below :

Disinfection Sterilization

Definition To disinfect means to To sterilize means to kill ALL

eliminate most harmful microbes - whether harmful or not -
microorganisms (not and their spores present on a surface
including their spores) from or object.
surfaces or objects;
inactivate viruses.

Phenolic disinfectants, Heat, chemicals, irradiation, high

Methods heavy metals, halogens pressure, and filtration.
(eg chlorine), bleach,
alcohols, hydrogen
peroxide, detergents,
heating and pasteurization.

Types Air disinfectants, alcohols, Steam, heating, chemical

aldehydes, oxidizing sterilization, radiation sterilization,
agents, phenolics. sterile filtration.

Application Disinfection is used mostly Sterilization is used for food,

to decontaminate surfaces medicine and surgical instruments.
and air.

Level of cleanliness Adequate Extreme

Bacterial spores Cannot be removed. Can be removed or killed.